Well you have this map which shows that there is some mountains in the way.
You also have the OLDEST treaty still in effect. The Anglo-Portuguese Treay of 1373.
In 1943 Winston Churchill made a speech regarding the Azores...
"I have an announcement", I said, "to make to the House arising out of the treaty signed between this country and Portugal in the year 1373 between His Majesty King Edward III and King Ferdinand and Queen Eleanor of Portugal." I spoke in a level voice, and made a pause to allow the House to take in the date, 1373. As this soaked in there was something like a gasp. I do not suppose any such continuity of relations between two Powers has ever been, or will ever be, set forth in the ordinary day-to-day work of British diplomacy.
hi! fyi, you'll find a relevant section in the FAQ
